View complete article and references at Commemorative Landscapes of North Carolina at: https://docsouth.unc.edu/commland/monument/104

Description: The 11 foot statue of Sir Walter Raleigh presents the great figure with his left hand on his hip and his right arm holding his cape. The statue is placed on a square base. The City of Raleigh's namesake is known for being a writer, soldier, courtier, and explorer.

Dedication date: 12/3/1976

Creator: Bruno Lucchesi, Sculptor

Materials & Techniques: Bronze

Sponsor: Sir Walter Raleigh Commission

Cost: $45,000

Subject notes: Sir Walter Raleigh (c. 1552 "Ò October 29, 1618) was a famed English writer, poet, soldier, courtier and explorer.

Controversies: A conflict arose after the monument was removed from its original spot on the Fayetteville Street Mall to be cleaned in Cincinnati. At the time, the Fayetteville Street Mall construction began, and it was necessary to remove the statue during the construction work. Raleigh city officials were unsure where to relocate the monument. After about two years (April 2005-July 2007), the statue was returned to Raleigh, and the City decided to move the monument to a new location in front of the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts.

Location: The statue is located across from Salisbury Street in front of the entrance to the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts.

Former Locations: The statue was originally located on the Fayetteville Street Mall until April 3, 2005 when it was sent to Cincinnati for cleaning and the pedestrian mall turned into a place for free flowing traffic. The statue was renovated in Cincinnati for about a year and three months and was returned during the Raleigh Wide Open 2 celebration on July 22, 2007. When the Progress Energy Center for Performing Arts reopened in 2008, the statue was moved from the corner of South and Salisbury Street towards the entrance.

Landscape: The statue is located on a walkway near the entrance to the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts. A few small trees and bushes are located near the front of the monument.

City: Raleigh

County: Wake

Subjects: Historic Cultural Figures